---
title: "What Is Grounding electrode? Electrical Glossary"
description: "A grounding electrode is any object that makes a direct connection between the electrical system and the earth."
url: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/grounding-electrode
publisher: Daniel Electric
phone: +1-817-481-8606
quote: https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/contact
---

Wiring and circuits

# Grounding electrode

A grounding electrode is any object that makes a direct connection between the electrical system and the earth.

Oncor defines a grounding electrode as a conducting object through which a direct connection to earth is established. nVent explains that made electrodes are installed on purpose and include plates, buried conductor, and rods or pipes driven into the ground. Other items, such as an underground metal water pipe, a building's metal frame or the rebar in a foundation, can also serve.

A [ground rod](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/ground-rod) is a common type. A [grounding electrode conductor](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/grounding-electrode-conductor) connects it to the panel. See [grounding](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/grounding). Work on it belongs to a licensed electrician.

[Daniel Electric can helpResidential electrician](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/electrician)

## Related terms

-   [Ground rod](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/ground-rod)
-   [Grounding electrode conductor](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/grounding-electrode-conductor)
-   [Grounding](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/grounding)
-   [Bonding](https://danielelectric.multisites.ai/glossary/bonding)

## Sources

1.  [Oncor: Electric Service Guidelines](https://www.oncor.com/content/dam/oncorwww/documents/electric-service-guidelines/Electric%20Service%20Guidelines%202021.pdf)
2.  [nVent ERICO: Grounding & Bonding for Electrical Systems](https://www.nvent.com/sites/default/files/dam/ixv2mfer6y/h86962-usen.pdf)

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## Need an electrician in Southlake?

Call and tell us what is going on. A photo of the panel label or the problem helps us come prepared. Quotes on new installations are free.

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